nuclear-news

Spill an ‘unusual event’ or business as usual?

Spill an ‘unusual event’ or business as usual?

August 4, 2009

Herald News By KIM SMITH

BRACEVILLE — Exelon officials say tritium was released because of an “unusual event.”

Tritium was released 100 feet into the air around 9 p.m. Thursday, Exelon said, as part of normal nuclear power plant operations — or at least it’s normal when there is a power outage………………….

The steam released into the air from Braidwood Generating Station in Braceville, contained 11,500 to 38,000 picocuries of tritium per liter of water.

Tritium is a radioactive hydrogen isotope that is a byproduct created when nuclear reactors produce electricity. Exposure reportedly can increase the risk of cancer, birth defects and genetic damage.

…………. The release is allowed under the station’s operating license, which is regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Spill an ‘unusual event’ or business as usual? :: Herald News :: Local News

August 5, 2009 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | 1